A Parent’s Guide to Colds in Newborns and Young Babies: Caring for Your Little One Through Sniffles and Sneezes and Providing Cold Relief

It’s never fun to see your newborn or young baby come down with a cold. Those little sniffles, sneezes, and coughs can be tough on everyone – but with a little TLC, you can make your little one more comfortable and help them feel better. Here’s a quick guide to getting through their first cold, plus tips to know when it might be time to call the doctor.

Why Babies Get Colds – And Why It’s Perfectly Normal

Young babies have developing immune systems, which makes them more likely to catch colds, especially if they’re around other children or adults. But the good news? Each little sniffle actually helps to build a stronger immune system! Most babies catch a few colds each year as their bodies build up natural defences – so whilst it’s no fun for anyone, it’s part of a healthy growing process.

Recognising Cold Symptoms in Babies

Newborns show many of the same cold symptoms that older children and adults do, just in a more delicate way. Common signs to watch out for include:

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Coughing (especially at night)

• Sneezing

• Slight fever (usually under 38°C)

• Less interest in feeding

• Disrupted sleep

• Fussiness or extra clinginess

While these symptoms are all normal, keep an eye out for any signs that your baby may need extra care. Contact your GP or ring 111(in the UK) if you notice:

• High fever (38°C or higher in babies under 3 months, 39°C for 3-6 months)

• Breathing difficulties (like panting, rapid breathing or sucking their stomach in under their ribs)

• Signs of dehydration (such as fewer wet nappies or dry lips)

• Skin Colour Changes (blue, pale, blotchy, or ashen/grey skin)

• Difficulty waking or confusion

• Constant crying that they cannot be distracted from that sounds different to their usual cries.

• Green Vomit

• Not feeding normally, causing concern

If you spot any of these symptoms, seek medial support to check in on your baby’s health. If your little one is under 6 months old it's hard for a doctor or nurse to assess them over the phone – you can go to an urgent treatment centre or, if you're very worried, take them to A&E.

How to Comfort Your Baby During a Cold

Although there’s no magic cure for the common cold, there are many ways you can help your baby feel cozy and comfortable while they rest and recover. Here’s how to give them extra relief:

1. Use a Cool Mist Humidifier

   A cool mist humidifier in your baby’s room, especially at night, can work wonders to soothe congestion. Moist air helps thin out mucus, making it easier for your baby to breathe. Just remember to keep it clean so it stays free of bacteria.

   
   

2. Saline Drops and Gentle Suction

   Saline drops can gently loosen up mucus, which you can then clear with a bulb syringe. It’s a quick fix that helps them breathe more easily, especially before feedings or bedtime. Be gentle, though – babies have tiny noses!

   
   

3. Encourage Frequent Feeding

   Keeping your baby hydrated is key to a speedy recovery. Whether you’re breastfeeding or formula feeding, frequent feedings help keep your baby hydrated and happy. Breast milk even has antibodies that can help fight off infection.

   
   

4. Gentle Massage

Simple baby massage strokes can help to open your baby’s nasal passages and encourage the mucus out of their little noses. Here are two strokes you can try today:

• starting above the nose, stroking in arch shapes along and above their eyebrows.

• starting at the top of their nose, sweeping down the sides of the nose and along their cheekbones.  

Baby massage has been found to reduce stress hormones (adrenaline and cortisol) and increase the calming hormone (oxytocin) in babies which will help to make them feel soothed and can improve their sleep. Click here to find out the other amazing benefits of baby massage and how I can help you.

5. Hold Them Close

   There’s nothing more comforting for a sick baby than snuggling up with a loved one! Skin-to-skin contact is soothing and comforting, and it gives them that sense of security they need. Plus, it’s a great way to keep them cozy and warm.

   
   

6. Elevate During the Day

   While babies should always sleep flat on their backs, holding them semi-upright when awake can help with congestion by allowing mucus to drain naturally. Just be sure not to place anything under their head while they sleep.

   
   

7. Keep Their Space Free from Irritants

   Avoid smoke, strong perfumes, and household cleaners that could irritate your baby’s sensitive respiratory system. A gentle, clean environment helps them breathe easier and feel more comfortable.

What to Avoid with Newborns

For young babies, natural care is the way to go. Certain treatments that work for adults or older children can be too strong for little ones. Here’s what to skip:

• Over-the-Counter Medications: Cold medicines aren’t safe or effective for young babies, so stick to natural relief methods like saline drops and humidifiers.

• Honey: Babies under one year should never be given honey, as it can contain bacteria that lead to botulism.

• Too Much Suction: While suctioning can help, overuse may irritate their sensitive noses. Only use it as needed to avoid discomfort.

Boosting Your Baby’s Immune System and Preventing Future Colds

While colds are inevitable, you can take steps to help keep your baby healthy:

• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands frequently and encourage others to do the same, especially before holding or caring for your little one.

• Limit Contact with Sick Individuals: Don’t hesitate to keep your baby away from friends or family members who are sick – it’s okay to be cautious!

The Bottom Line

Colds and congestion are just part of growing up, and with some simple, gentle care, your baby will be back to their happy, healthy self in no time. Remember, you’re doing everything you can to help them feel better – and each cold helps build their immune system, getting them ready for a strong, healthy future! And if you’re ever unsure, your local chemist, doctor or health visitor is there to support you both through these first sniffles and sneezes.